Ross is a masculine given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic word "Ruadh," which means "red." This name was likely bestowed upon individuals with red hair or a reddish complexion in ancient Scotland.
The name Ross has been used throughout history, with notable figures bearing this name including Rosslyn Chapel founder Sir William St Clair (1324-1380), and the 16th-century Scottish poet Alexander Ross. However, it was not until the 19th century that Ross began to gain significant popularity as a given name in English-speaking countries.
Today, Ross is considered a classic yet unpretentious masculine name, often associated with strength, courage, and Scottish heritage. Despite its Scottish origins, Ross has been adopted by various cultures around the world, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a timeless, international name for their sons.
"The name Ross experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the past century and a half. In the late 19th to early 20th century, it peaked around World War I, with over 500 births annually from 1917 onwards, reaching its peak of 816 in 1947. However, since the mid-20th century, popularity has declined steadily, reaching an all-time low of just 115 births in 2023."